Support Center
How-to access account
Learn about Forms and Waivers
Policies, Code of Conduct & Guidelines
Account Sign in

Financial Assistance

At the YMCA of Greater Seattle, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to participate — regardless of financial circumstances. That’s why we offer income-based financial assistance for memberships and programs as funding allows.

What Financial Assistance Is

Financial assistance (sometimes called a subsidy or scholarship) provides reduced rates based on your household income and size. Eligible applicants receive a discounted rate for memberships and a wide range of Y programs. The discount is typically valid for 12 months unless otherwise noted in your confirmation.

What it Covers

Financial assistance is available for:

  • Memberships: individual and household options.
  • Programs: swim lessons, youth sports, enrichment activities, and more.
  • Camps & Education Programs: including day camp, early education, and before & after-school care.

How it Works

  1. Create a YMCA account (if you don’t already have one). 
    Before starting the application, you’ll need to create a free YMCA account. Please use the email address you plan to use for all communication regarding your application, future programs, and membership. After clicking the “Apply Today” button below you’ll be prompted to login or create a new account.
  2. Complete the financial assistance application. 
    There are four application pathways. You must submit an application for each pathway you are interested in:
    • Membership & Programs
    • Programs Only
    • Before & After-School and Day Camp
    • Early Learning
  3. Provide household information. 
    You’ll enter household income, household size, and for membership-your preferred location. our locations here if helpful.
  4. We will review your application.
    • You will receive an automatic financial assistance determination after submitting your application. If qualified, you may use the coupon codes provided in that determination to then go online and purchase your membership, programs, or camp & education programs. The coupon code is required on every transaction to properly discount your fees.
    • Your financial assistance determination is also emailed to you. If you wish to request additional FA or follow-up, this can be done by logging into your YMCA account, selecting “financial assistance” then “review an existing application” and request follow-up from there.
  5. Receive your adjusted rate. 
    Approved applicants receive financial assistance for up to 12 months, with periodic re-verification if requested by the YMCA of Greater Seattle. Please notify us if your financial situation changes.

Our Commitment

The Y is dedicated to making participation possible for all. Financial assistance ensures individuals and families can access opportunities that support well-being, learning, and community connection.

Apply for Financial Assistance

Click the button below to get started.

Apply Today

If you have any issues or questions, please reach out through our Contact Us page — we’re here to help. You may also visit any of our YMCA membership locations for additional support.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I get my award amount?
  • You will receive an instant determination and an email with your award, if qualified.
How do I review my application?
  • Log into your YMCA account and click “More”. Select “Financial Assistance” in the drop down to review your application and determination.
How often can I reapply?
  • Awards expire after 12 months. You will receive a reminder email to reapply 2 months prior to expiry. 
  • Applications are only allowed once every 3 months per pathway.
My award isn’t enough or I did not qualify and want to be reconsidered?
  • Please escalate your award by selecting the “request follow up” in your YMCA account under “Financial Assistance.”
What happens if I forget to renew?
  • For membership, if you do not renew, your dues will revert to full pay at the end of the 12 month period upon expiration. 
  • For programs, camp, and education programs, your fees will default to full pay for any new enrollments after expiry.
Can I reapply after my award expires?
  • Yes, this will be considered a new application. Determinations and awards are not retroactively applied unless special arrangements have been made.
Does my discount auto apply?
Can I do this online? In branch?
  • Yes, you are welcome to activate your membership or programs here by shopping online as well as our 13 membership locations.
Does this discount work on products in the YMCA of Greater Seattle “Shop with Purpose” online store?

Need Help?

We are here to support your application process. Please call us at (206) 382-5022 for additional support.

.